The impact of free trade on the North American cattle industry is under review by the International Trade Commission.
Canadian cattle producers travelled to Washington, D.C. March 20 to defend their industry and were surprised to see no representation from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. The American organization has not submitted a written comment, said David Andrews, president of the Canadian group.
When the North American Free Trade Agreement was being written, the American cattle producers were strong supporters.
Besides hearing information from the Canadians about the cattle industry in this country, the chair of the investigating committee also asked if the Canadian Wheat Board has an effect on barley prices between Canada and the northwestern United States.
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Andrews told them the issue is under debate in this country with no clear resolution.
Senator Max Baucus, of Montana, requested in a written submission that beef re-inspection at the borders be studied by this committee.
“We have every reason to be optimistic that the report will be fair and provide a good discussion,” said Andrews.
Besides the Canadian presentation, there were witnesses from New Zealand, the U.S. Importers Council and Arizona Cattle Feeders and Mexican Cattle Feeders.
